Rotkeil Severum (Red-Shoulder Severum)

The Rotkeil Severum (Heros cf. efasciatus "Rotkeil"), also known as the Red-Shoulder Severum, is a beautiful and peaceful cichlid prized for its striking red coloration on the head and shoulders. It is a social, intelligent fish that makes an excellent addition to a South American-themed aquarium.

Maximum Size:

• Can grow up to 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in captivity.

Native Region:

• Found in South America, particularly in the Amazon River basin, including Peru and Brazil.
• Inhabits slow-moving waters, floodplains, and blackwater rivers with plenty of submerged wood and vegetation.

Diet (Carnivorous or Omnivorous?):

• Omnivorous, eating both plant-based and protein-rich foods.
• In the wild, they feed on insects, crustaceans, algae, and plant matter.
• In captivity, they thrive on:
  ✅ High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
  ✅ Fresh vegetables (blanched zucchini, spinach, peas)
  ✅ Live and frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms)
  ✅ Algae-based foods (spirulina flakes, seaweed sheets)

Lifespan:

• Typically 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Breeding Season & Behavior:

• Breeding Type: Egg-layer and biparental care
• Breeding occurs year-round in captivity if conditions are ideal (clean water, stable temperature, and a nutritious diet).
• The female lays eggs on a flat surface (rocks, driftwood, or glass), and both parents guard the eggs and fry.
• Parents become territorial during breeding and will aggressively protect their young.

Best Tank Mates:

Rotkeil Severums are semi-peaceful and do well with:

✅ Other peaceful to mildly aggressive cichlids (Uaru, Geophagus, Festivums, Angelfish)
✅ Larger schooling fish (Silver Dollars, Congo Tetras, Denison Barbs)
✅ Bottom dwellers (Plecos, Corydoras, Hoplo Catfish)

🚫 Avoid:

• Highly aggressive cichlids (Oscars, Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys, Flowerhorns).
• Small fish that may be mistaken for food (like Neon Tetras).

Ideal Tank Conditions:

• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum, but 100+ gallons is recommended for a pair.
• Temperature: 76-84°F (24-29°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5 (prefers slightly acidic to neutral water).
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.
• Décor: Provide driftwood, caves, and large rocks for shelter.
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.